Faculty Focus: Meet the Experts Behind Texas Wesleyan’s Online Cybersecurity Program

The digital age demands a growing number of skilled cybersecurity professionals, and exceptional faculty are essential for providing quality education in this field. At Texas Wesleyan University, our online cybersecurity program is powered by a team of experts who bring years of industry experience, cutting-edge research and real-world insight into the virtual classroom. Their commitment to hands-on cybersecurity training ensures students gain practical skills, as well as a deeper understanding of what it takes to protect modern networks and data systems. In this blog, you’ll meet the professors and adjuncts shaping the future of cybersecurity — one course, project and student at a time.

The Strength of Texas Wesleyan’s Cybersecurity Faculty

What sets Texas Wesleyan’s online cybersecurity program apart is the caliber of its faculty. These experienced educators bring a rare combination of academic knowledge and industry-tested skill, creating a learning environment that’s both rigorous and practical. Their leadership helps shape a curriculum built on hands-on cybersecurity training, real-world applications and a commitment to student success.

Blending Academic Excellence With Industry Expertise

At Texas Wesleyan, the faculty behind the online cybersecurity program don’t just teach — they’ve lived the work. With backgrounds in digital forensics, network defense and secure system design, these professors combine academic credentials with years of professional experience in the field. Many hold advanced degrees and cybersecurity industry certifications such as:

• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): Often considered a leading certification for experienced cybersecurity professionals, CISSP represents broad, advanced knowledge of security strategy, risk management, and secure system design. To earn it, professionals typically need several years of industry experience and must pass a rigorous exam covering core security domains.
• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): CEH validates expertise in ethical hacking techniques used to identify vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. To obtain it, professionals must complete approved training (or show relevant experience) and pass an exam testing knowledge of hacking tools, methods, and penetration testing concepts.
• CompTIA Security+: Security+ is a widely recognized entry-to-mid-level cybersecurity certification that builds foundational knowledge in areas such as network security, threat response, cryptography, and risk mitigation. Certification is earned by passing an exam focused on practical security skills.

Faculty also stay current with evolving threats and technologies, bringing timely, relevant insights to every class. Students gain a comprehensive education in cybersecurity, encompassing malware analysis, penetration testing and incident response, through a curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Why Faculty Experience Matters in Cybersecurity Education

The cybersecurity landscape changes rapidly, and students need more than just textbooks to keep up. That’s why Texas Wesleyan emphasizes practical cybersecurity training, with coursework designed by faculty who understand what employers are really looking for. Their real-world experience informs everything from the topics covered in class to the tools and platforms students use.

Faculty often integrate current threats and real case studies into the curriculum, helping students apply classroom concepts to actual scenarios. Professors at TXWES serve as dedicated mentors, offering students not only knowledge but also confidence. Students benefit from the guidance of experts who have navigated challenges similar to those they will soon face in their careers.

The Professors Behind the Program

Texas Wesleyan’s online cybersecurity program is powered by a team of dedicated educators whose professional credentials and accomplishments bring real-world insight and academic rigor to the classroom. Below, we explore the industry certifications, research impact and standout career highlights that define their contributions to practical, career-focused education.

Industry Certifications and Professional Achievements

The faculty supporting Texas Wesleyan’s online cybersecurity program brings both academic credentials and industry-recognized expertise. Many instructors hold cybersecurity industry certifications such as the aforementioned CISSP, CEH and CompTIA Security+. These credentials demonstrate a deep, up-to-date understanding of critical cybersecurity domains, from network defense to risk management and penetration testing.

In addition to certification, several faculty members have real-world experience in roles such as systems analysts, security consultants and IT managers. This professional background ensures that the online cybersecurity courses go beyond theory, offering students insight into what’s truly expected in today’s cybersecurity workforce.

Research Contributions and Publications

While the program emphasizes practical cybersecurity training, research remains an important part of Texas Wesleyan’s academic environment. Faculty members contribute to ongoing advancements in cybersecurity by exploring topics such as machine learning in threat detection, data privacy, secure software architecture and the ethical implications of emerging technologies.

Some professors have presented at industry conferences, including the Super Computing Conference and the Software Engineering of Emerging Technologies conference, sharing insights on innovations in computer science, data science and information assurance. This work helps shape course content and provides students with access to timely discussions about evolving challenges and innovations in cybersecurity.

Career Highlights and Cybersecurity Specializations

From federal consulting to private-sector innovation, Texas Wesleyan’s faculty bring a diverse array of career experiences into the classroom. Their collective backgrounds include roles in areas such as government cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure security, incident response and digital forensics. This breadth of expertise means students are exposed to multiple cybersecurity pathways and can better understand where their own strengths may lie.

In addition to real-world experience, professors in the cybersecurity program specialize in niche areas. These may include:

• Secure software development
• Computer graphics
• Compliance management
• Cloud computing
• Web programming

Through guided mentorship and applied learning, students develop deep academic knowledge and career-aligned insight, preparing them for success in both certification exams and real-world roles.

How Faculty Expertise Shapes the Curriculum

Texas Wesleyan’s online cybersecurity program offers a dynamic, application-driven learning experience. It's shaped by faculty with real-world field experience, going beyond traditional virtual lectures. With their guidance, the curriculum emphasizes practical cybersecurity training through real-world tools, industry-aligned assessments and hands-on activities that mirror what students will encounter on the job.

Real-World Case Studies and Hands-On Projects

Students benefit from immersive, scenario-based assignments rooted in real cybersecurity challenges. Faculty frequently draw from their professional experience to design projects that mimic data breaches, malware analysis and network defense strategies. These hands-on cybersecurity training elements not only build technical skills but also foster problem-solving and critical thinking — two of the most valued traits in the cybersecurity field.

For example, students may work through a simulated incident response scenario where they analyze suspicious network activity, identify the source of the threat, and recommend containment steps based on real-world cybersecurity frameworks. Whether it’s responding to a simulated ransomware attack or conducting a vulnerability assessment, students are encouraged to apply what they’ve learned in practical, meaningful ways.

Integrating the Latest Security Tools and Technologies

Faculty continuously update course content to reflect the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Through access to current tools such as Wireshark, Metasploit, Kali Linux and industry-standard SIEM platforms, students gain experience with the same technologies used by cybersecurity professionals around the world.

Faculty stay connected to industry trends and emerging threats, ensuring the online cybersecurity courses remain relevant and career-focused. This integration of real tools into the coursework helps bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Preparing Students for Industry Certifications

Because many faculty members hold cybersecurity industry certifications themselves, they’re uniquely positioned to help students prepare for the same credentials. Courses are designed to align with certification pathways, giving students the foundational knowledge and confidence they need to succeed.

Instructors offer tailored support throughout the program, helping students identify the right certification for their goals, study effectively and practice with relevant tools and techniques. By the end of the program, students are not only academically prepared but also professionally equipped to pursue and earn in-demand certifications.

Mentorship and Student Support

The online cybersecurity program at Texas Wesleyan emphasizes personalized support, professional development and meaningful connections, alongside technical skill development. Through the university’s cybersecurity mentorship program, students benefit from direct access to faculty and mentors who are invested in their success, both during the program and beyond.

One-On-One Guidance from Seasoned Cybersecurity Experts

One hallmark of Texas Wesleyan’s approach is its commitment to individualized support. Thanks to the university’s “Smaller. Smarter.” model, students receive one-on-one attention from faculty who bring years of hands-on experience in the field. Whether students need help mastering a complex concept or want advice on pursuing cybersecurity industry certifications, they have access to mentors who understand the path forward.

This one-on-one interaction not only enhances learning, but also builds confidence, particularly for students new to the cybersecurity field or those returning to school while managing work and family obligations.

Career Coaching and Professional Networking Opportunities

Through robust career services, students gain access to experiential learning and leadership opportunities. Faculty and program mentors provide insights on resume development, certification prep and how to stand out in a competitive job market. In many cases, they also help students tap into professional networks and connect with hiring managers, internship opportunities and alumni in the field.

These mentorship relationships add real value beyond the virtual classroom, supporting students as they navigate job searches, build their portfolios and prepare for interviews.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Cyber Defenders

At Texas Wesleyan, faculty members view mentorship as a vital tool for inspiring students. Beyond academic assistance, it cultivates ethical, capable and forward-thinking professionals. Many instructors share their own career journeys, offering perspectives on the evolving threats and challenges that define today’s cybersecurity field.

The university enables students to think critically, act ethically and embrace innovation by integrating technical instruction with real-world wisdom. For those looking to make an impact, the program offers the guidance and practical cybersecurity training needed to become part of the next generation of cyber defenders.

Why Choose Texas Wesleyan’s Online Cybersecurity Program

Building a strong foundation in both business strategy and information technology is key to thriving in today’s digital economy. Texas Wesleyan’s B.B.A. in Computer Information Systems (CIS) is designed to help students develop that foundation, combining technical expertise with communication and problem-solving skills that translate across industries. Along the way, students can also position themselves for more advanced study, including access to a specialized cybersecurity program — creating a clear pathway from broad IT knowledge to focused security expertise.

Access to Experienced Faculty and Personalized Learning

Enrolling in Texas Wesleyan’s computer information courses offers more than just knowledge. It provides direct access to faculty members who bring extensive, real-world experience into the classroom. Through the cybersecurity mentorship program, you’ll work one-on-one with instructors who understand your goals and can help you build a customized path toward success.

Flexible Format Designed for Working Professionals

Balancing education with work and personal responsibilities can be challenging. Fortunately, Texas Wesleyan’s flexible course formats help make earning your degree more manageable. With supportive faculty and accessible learning options, you can stay on track academically while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments. Our program allows you to stay engaged with coursework, faculty and peers — no matter how busy your life gets.

Career-Ready Skills for a High-Demand Industry

The curriculum is intentionally designed to build the core competencies employers look for, including network security, ethical hacking, system architecture and more. Faculty incorporate real-world projects and current threat scenarios to help students apply their skills in meaningful ways. From day one, students prepare for valuable cybersecurity industry certifications, positioning them for roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors.

Thanks to a focus on hands-on cybersecurity training, mentorship and job-aligned coursework, graduates of Texas Wesleyan’s program leave equipped with the tools needed to protect digital systems and lead the charge in a fast-moving field.

Explore Your Future in Technology at Texas Wesleyan

Developing technical expertise, business insight, and problem-solving confidence can open the door to a wide range of technology careers. Texas Wesleyan’s B.B.A. in Computer Information Systems provides that groundwork while also creating a pathway into advanced study in cybersecurity for students who want to further specialize. As you build these in-demand skills, Texas Wesleyan supports your progress with flexible learning options designed to fit alongside your work, family, and other commitments.

Connect with our team today to learn more about Texas Wesleyan’s on-campus and online programs and take the next step toward building a future in cybersecurity.